HELOC vs HELOAN

Two ways to use your equity — compared side by side.

A HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) and a HELOAN (Home Equity Loan) both let you borrow against the equity you've built. Here's exactly how they differ, so it's clear which one fits your situation.

Flexible HELOC Home Equity Line of Credit
Fixed HELOAN Home Equity Loan
Structure Revolving line of credit (3–5 year draw period) Lump-sum second mortgage
Rate type Variable or fixed Fixed
How you get funds Initial required draw, then draw more as needed up to your limit. You can pay down and re-access equity up to the total line amount as needed within the draw period. Full amount disbursed at closing
Repayment
  • Variable rate — interest only
  • Variable rate — principal + interest
  • Fixed rate — principal + interest
Fixed monthly payment for the full term
Term Multiple terms available — 10, 15, 20, or 30-year options Multiple terms available — 10, 15, 20, or 30-year options
Best for An upfront expense now, with room to draw more equity later One-time, known expense
First mortgage Unaffected — stays in place Unaffected — stays in place
Flexible HELOC Home Equity Line of Credit
Structure
Revolving line of credit (3–5 year draw period)
Rate type
Variable or fixed
How you get funds
Initial required draw, then draw more as needed up to your limit. You can pay down and re-access equity up to the total line amount as needed within the draw period.
Repayment
  • Variable rate — interest only
  • Variable rate — principal + interest
  • Fixed rate — principal + interest
Term
Multiple terms available — 10, 15, 20, or 30-year options
Best for
An upfront expense now, with room to draw more equity later
First mortgage
Unaffected — stays in place
Fixed HELOAN Home Equity Loan
Structure
Lump-sum second mortgage
Rate type
Fixed
How you get funds
Full amount disbursed at closing
Repayment
Fixed monthly payment for the full term
Term
Multiple terms available — 10, 15, 20, or 30-year options
Best for
One-time, known expense
First mortgage
Unaffected — stays in place

Not sure which one fits? We'll walk through both with you — no obligation.

Common uses

What homeowners use it for

Renovations

Kitchens, additions, and repairs that build long-term value.

Debt consolidation

Roll higher-rate balances into one predictable payment.

Education costs

Tuition or other expenses, on your own timeline.

Major expenses

A financial cushion for whatever comes up next.

What do you want to use your equity for?
How it works

From application to funds, in three steps

I. Apply or Contact

Tell us your home's value, mortgage balance, and what you're looking to do.

II. Compare Your Options

We shop HELOC and HELOAN terms across our lender network.

III. Close and Access Funds

Once approved, your line or loan closes and funds become available.

FAQ

Common questions

Why work with a broker instead of going straight to a lender?

Instead of calling around yourself, we shop HELOC and HELOAN terms across our lender network and bring you the options that fit — with one point of contact throughout. Everything happens by phone and online, so there's no office visit required.

What's the difference between a HELOC and a HELOAN?

A HELOC (home equity line of credit) is a revolving line you draw from as needed, usually with a variable rate. A HELOAN (home equity loan) gives you a single lump sum upfront at a fixed rate. Which one fits depends on whether your expense is ongoing or one-time.

How much equity can I access?

Most lenders allow you to borrow up to 80–90% of your home's value, combined across your first mortgage and the new loan. The exact amount depends on your home's value, existing mortgage balance, and credit profile.

Will a HELOC or HELOAN affect my first mortgage?

No. Both sit as a second lien behind your existing mortgage, which keeps its current rate and terms untouched.

What can I use the funds for?

Common uses include home renovations, debt consolidation, education costs, and major purchases. There are typically no restrictions on how the funds are used.

How long does it take to close?

Timelines vary by lender and documentation, but many HELOCs and HELOANs close within a few weeks of a completed application.

Kitchen renovation funded by a home equity loan
Let's get started

Ready to see what your equity is worth?

No obligation, no pressure — just a clear look at your best rate.

Compare My HELOC & HELOAN Rates